Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the committee members for allowing me to come in first and I also thank Professor Ashe for coming to the meeting. I totally agree with everything she is saying with regard, in particular, to planning and preparing. If there is going to be a referendum, that planning is vital and must be a priority at this point. In November, the committee heard from Professor Jennifer Todd and Dr. Joanne McEvoy. They spoke about the need for organic and systemic deliberation. They said, as Professor Ashe did, that many of these issues circle back to funding. I would like her to expand on that point a little because it is very important.

Northern Ireland has had great success with cross-community programmes, particularly youth programmes. We have heard young people speak about those youth programmes. It was noted at another of the meetings of the committee that some state-run initiatives do not reach those grassroots spaces. Is that something we need to explore? Could a cross-community and cross-Border initiative be of benefit? How does Professor Ashe think it would be of benefit? I would like her to expand a little on that point.

Can we strike a balance between resources and the need for a safe, participant-led space? Those are my initial questions and I will come back in to ask a couple more if there is time.